Valley Stream honors veterans and launches Toys for Tots Drive at annual celebration

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The Village of Valley Stream hosted its annual Veterans Day Celebration at the Valley Stream Village Band Shell, bringing community members together to honor local veterans.

“In Valley Stream, despite the pressures of domestic uncertainty, and under a soaring American flag and Village Centennial banner, we continue to honor our brave military heroes as we always have, and I pray, always will,” Mayor Ed Fare said. “Were it not for the sacrifices of our men and women in uniform, our nation and our lives would be far different than what we know today. We must never forget that.”

The event also marked the start of the Village’s annual Toys for Tots Drive, held in partnership with the United States Marine Corps and the Valley Stream Chamber of Commerce. Despite cold and windy weather, residents from across the community attended to show their support for those who have served in the nation’s armed forces.

The celebration served as the kickoff for the toy drive, which invites community members to donate new, unwrapped toys to benefit children during the holiday season.

Veterans Day is observed each year on Nov. 11. It is a federal holiday dedicated to honoring all military veterans who have served in the United States Armed Forces. The date marks the anniversary of the armistice that ended World War I in 1918, and the day is recognized nationwide through ceremonies, gatherings and acts of remembrance.